While the City is cold and mired in snow, now is the time to ask for what Harlem deserves, so there’s a chance Harlem will have it to enjoy as soon as possible, ideally by this Spring.

The Citibike program has been largely hailed as a huge success, and plans are in place for its expansion.

New York Magazine reported though, that the new stations “are planned for the Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Park Slope, and Cobble Hill”.

The article points out that the planned expansion “does nothing to fight the perception — and stats — that contend the program is catering only to well-off white people.”

The expansion of the Citibike program into less affluent areas will mean greater access to the city annual costs of a metrocard start at over $1,300, which would mean greater access to opportunities.

Harlemites pay the same taxes on sales, income, and property, but we are always the last to benefit when the city prospers, and while Harlem is enjoying something of a renaissance, the City, in this case the NYC Department of Transportation, can help Harlem help itself by supporting the infrastructure of our Manhattan neighborhood.

Harlem is home to many students, recent college graduates, and others just starting out in the city. A bike share program would boom amongst them. This is especially true given the emergence of Harlem’s Educational Hub in Manhattanville.

The petition needs the support of Polly Trottenberg, Dept. of Transportation, Commissioner for the New York City Department of Transportation; Henrietta Lyle, Chairman for CB10; Andrew Lassalle, Assistant District Manager; Seth Solomon, Press Secretary at NYC Department of Transportation.